Department of Corrections Staff Raises Almost Half a Million Dollars for Florida State Employees' Charitable Campaign

Defying all odds given the state of the economy, the Florida Department of Corrections has not only collected close to half a million dollars for the Florida State Employees’ Charitable Campaign (FSECC) this year, but they surpassed the amount they donated last year by $20,400.

The total amount collected from the DOC’s 29,000 full and part-time employees in 2010 is $473,577, compared to $453,176 last year, a 4.5% increase.

Employees organized bake sales, fish fries, pancake breakfasts, barbecues and some unique contests, including talent shows, auctions, a “chocolate extravaganza” and even a “baked potato bar,” to raise the money.

Corrections Secretary Walt McNeil thanked his employees for their generosity, saying "This money will be used to keep cold weather shelters open for the homeless, to provide safe haven for abused spouses and frightened children, to feed the hungry, to combat diseases, and for a number of other positive, life-affirming causes. And none of that would be happening if not for your generosity in these difficult economic times."

The money for the Campaign goes toward social services and charities locally, statewide and nationally. Employees may select which charities to donate to from a list provided, and the funds may be payroll deducted if they desire.

For more information, contact Public Affairs Director Gretl Plessinger at (850) 488-0420.

Department of Corrections staff in Tallahassee who help write menus for inmate meals, cook up some pancakes for a breakfast to benefit the Florida State Employees' Charitable Campaign.

The Dunk Tank was very graciously occupied by Warden David Lawrence and Assistant Warden Jerry Cummings (in the tank) who agreed to be dunked by staff who could take a little good natured taunting and could throw a straight ball!